By Moses Joshua 
The Buccaneers’ star receiver could make his long-awaited return under the Monday night lights against Detroit.
Evans’ Comeback Within Reach
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are inching closer to getting one of their biggest offensive weapons back on the field. After missing three straight games with a nagging hamstring injury, wide receiver Mike Evans is trending toward making his return in Week 7 against the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football.
Evans, who first went down in Week 3, has steadily increased his workload during practice. The veteran wideout logged a full practice session to close out the week — a major sign of progress that has fans and fantasy managers feeling optimistic.
While the Buccaneers officially listed Evans as questionable, all signs point to a comeback. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Evans “is likely to play” on Monday night. That aligns with his past pattern: whenever he’s closed the week with full participation, he’s suited up on game day.
Fantasy Football Outlook: Start or Sit?
If you’ve been stashing Evans on your fantasy bench, this might be the week to unleash him. Despite his limited action this season, Evans still ranks as WR33, keeping him firmly in the flex conversation — and potentially higher, given the matchup.
With Chris Godwin ruled out, Evans should slide into an even more prominent role in the passing attack. And if Emeka Egbuka (questionable) doesn’t play, Evans’ target share could skyrocket.
Adding to his upside, Detroit’s secondary is depleted. The Lions are tied for the second-most fantasy points allowed to wide receivers in 2025 and will be without both starting cornerbacks, Terrion Arnold and D.J. Reed. That sets the stage for Evans to deliver strong numbers in his first game back.
The Bottom Line
Assuming he’s active, Mike Evans is a must-start in Week 7. His combination of target volume, red-zone presence, and favorable matchup makes him a top-tier fantasy play.
After weeks on the sideline, Evans could be primed for a statement performance — and his return couldn’t come at a better time for a Buccaneers team fighting to stay hot in the NFC South race.